Celtics Rally from 22-Point Deficit to Edge Heat 98-96 in Dramatic Comeback

The Boston Celtics pulled off their most impressive comeback of the 2025-26 season on Friday night, rallying from a 22-point deficit to defeat the Miami Heat 98-96 at TD Garden. Jaylen Brown led the charge with 29 points while Payton Pritchard contributed 24 points off the bench as Boston extended their winning streak to five games. Miami dominated the first half, jumping out to a 15-2 lead and building their advantage to as many as 22 points before taking a commanding 59-38 lead into halftime. The Heat appeared to be in complete control, executing their game plan to perfection and stifling Boston's typically potent offense through the opening 24 minutes. The third quarter proved to be the turning point as the Celtics found their rhythm on both ends of the floor. Boston outscored Miami 25-7 over the final 7:06 of the third quarter, turning a 67-49 deficit into a competitive game heading into the final frame. The defensive intensity that has defined Boston's season finally emerged, forcing turnovers and creating transition opportunities. In the fourth quarter, the Celtics completed the comeback behind clutch performances from their key players. Derrick White hit a crucial 3-pointer from the corner with 1:31 remaining that gave Boston the final two-point margin. The shot capped off a furious rally that saw the Celtics completely flip the script on what had been a dominant Heat performance. Nikola Vucevic made an immediate impact in his first game with the Celtics following the recent trade deadline. The veteran center posted a double-double with 11 points and 12 rebounds, providing the interior presence and experience that Boston acquired him for. His ability to contribute right away bodes well for the Celtics' championship aspirations. The loss was a crushing blow for Miami, who watched a 22-point lead evaporate in spectacular fashion. Despite their strong start, the Heat couldn't maintain their intensity and fell victim to Boston's championship-caliber comeback ability. The defeat highlighted concerns about Miami's ability to close out games against elite competition as the season progresses toward the playoffs.